As the pandemic grinds into Year Three, I think we can all agree that we are collectively stuck in a rut. While we can’t magically wish away COVID, there are things we can do in our individual lives that can help make this season more bearable.
And besides making this season of life more bearable, science tells us that it’s good to try new things. It makes us happier, it makes us smarter, and it helps us connect with new people (or at least connect with the same-old, same-old people in a new and healthier way).
So, it may be a little late for new year’s resolutions, but my family and I are adopting a goal of “try something new” for 2022. Here are some ideas and inspiration to get you going:
Try A New Food
Along with the rest of the world, my kids are obsessed with Disney’s Encanto. They’ve watched it multiple times and know all the songs by heart. So, to capitalize on their obsession, I ordered takeout from a new local Columbian restaurant and proclaimed it a “Try Something New” dinner. While they didn’t love everything on their plates, they discovered cheese empanadas and loved them.
Try A New Activity
While my husband and I do require certain activities for our children (mainly swim lessons and piano lessons), we give them the opportunity to choose an activity of their own based on whatever they are interested in at the time. My daughter decided she wanted to take ballet lessons this year, and she was initially embarrassed at being the oldest in her intro class, but she *loves* it, which helps erase any lingering self-consciousness.
Try Something That Scares You (Safely!)
*Most* people have some level of anxiety surrounding heights, including kids. In the past year, both my elementary-aged kids have been invited to birthday parties at the ropes course at Union Station. They were both nervous about the idea but excited to try it. Spoiler alert: they had a blast. The bonus is that conquering that fear in a safe way may give them the confidence boost they need to tackle other fears.
Try A New Friend
My kids have a strong sense of loyalty that sometimes gets in the way of new friendships, and it can get confusing when they get to the age where they start developing multiple social circles. Gently remind them that there’s nothing wrong with having lots of different friends – friends on the soccer team, friends at school, friends at scouts, etc.
It’s Not Just for Kids
Us parents can benefit from trying new things, too. Whether it’s as simple as trying out a new podcast, picking a different neighborhood restaurant for takeout, or signing up for a new class at the gym, there are small things you can do to shake up your routine and shake off the winter/pandemic blues.
Other New Things to Try:
- Try a new hairstyle
- Try a new author
- Try a new streaming series
- Try a new hobby
- Try a new recipe
- Try a new workout
- Try a new walking route around the neighborhood
- Try a new playground
- Try a new coffee shop
- Try a new church
- Try a new cocktail
- Try a new shade (lipstick, nail polish, etc.)
- Try a new sport
- Try a new style
- Try a new routine
